Chickenpox (Varicella) Advisory Sent on Behalf of the UT Dallas Student Health Center

Aug. 29, 2011

Three cases of chickenpox have been diagnosed at the UT Dallas Student Health Center in the last week. This highly contagious virus spreads from person to person by direct contact or through coughing or sneezing.

You are at risk of getting chickenpox if you have not already had the disease or receive the Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine. Symptoms include an itchy rash, fever and lack of energy. They are usually fairly mild but may be more severe in infants, adults or people with impaired immune systems. The UT Dallas Student Health Center is not providing the vaccine at this time. Contact your primary care physician or the Dallas County Health Department to receive the vaccine. Many urgent care facilities also administer the vaccine.

For more information on chickenpox symptoms and precautions, visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website or contact the UT Dallas Student Health Center at 972-883-2747.